The International Philharmonia of the Californias was established in January 2003 by the Mexican conductor Pablo Varela. The orchestra takes pride in showcasing the best young professional musicians from both sides of the border and welcomes other musicians from around the world. The IPC aims to collaborate with artists in all disciplines in order to establish an international web of multicultural activities.

Driven by the desire to impart the excitement of classical music on both sides of the border, the orchestra will perform in three locations during the season: California and North and South Baja California.

The IPC is a non-profit organization that aims to enrich and unite the cultural life of the Californias. For this purpose, it has created an annual funding campaign. Support is solicited from both public and private organizations in Mexico and the United States. This funding will allow the orchestra to operate year-round, presenting its programs in all three locations.